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Nighttime Dog Walking Safety Tips

Stay safe during after-dark dog walks this fall with practical tips on visibility, gear, route planning, and avoiding nighttime hazards.

If you’re like a lot of people, you often end up walking your dog early in the morning or late in the evening, when it’s dark or dusky. This is especially the case now that fall is here and the days are getting shorter.

When visibility is low, you have to take your dog’s safety, and your own, into a little more consideration. Here are some nighttime dog walking safety tips to ensure your nocturnal outings remain safe and enjoyable for you and your best friend.

Prioritize visibility

Passing traffic should be able to see you and your dog. Depending on weather conditions, seeing clearly can be just as difficult in the half-light of dawn or dusk as during complete darkness.

Wear lighter-colored clothes that will show up better. Black or gray aren’t good choices. Also, choose options with reflective fabrics or trim. For your dog, opt for a jacket, sweater, collar, or leash with reflective features drivers can easily see.

Carry a light

A flashlight or headlamp will make you even more visible. A handheld flashlight may not be the best option when you’re also holding your dog’s leash. You can buy lights that clip to your belt. Lights that flash will increase your visibility. For your dog, purchase an LED collar, harness and leash designed specifically for nighttime walking.

Dress accordingly

The night hours, especially those just before dawn, are the coolest. Nighttime walking can be a welcome relief during the summer, when it’s often too warm for outdoor exercise. During the fall, though, it can get quite chilly when the sun is down, so be sure to dress accordingly and fit your dog out with a jacket or sweater.

Protect against mosquitoes

Depending on where you live, dawn and dusk are when mosquitoes are most active, even in the fall. Make sure to use a safe and natural repellent to protect both you and your dog if you decide to walk him during these times.

You can buy natural sprays and lotions that are safe for pets, or make your own. Use a few drops of quality essential oil, such as lavender, eucalyptus, or rosemary. Dilute it in coconut or olive oil to create a simple and effective repellent. Apply it to your skin and your dog’s coat.

Keep your dog leashed

It’s very important to keep your dog on the leash when you’re walking at night. When visibility is limited, your dog can quickly wander out of sight, making it hard to track him. He could run in front of a car, chase a rabbit, or get into garbage before you realize it.

Watch for wild animals

Coyotes, raccoons, skunks and other critters are active at night, another good reason to keep your dog leashed. Stick to more built-up, well-lit areas – wild animals are less likely to appear there than in secluded or wooded spots.

If you do happen to spot any wildlife while out for a walk, alter your route so your dog doesn’t come in contact with it.

Consider personal safety

Many people assume they’ll be safer if they have a dog with them at night. But not all potential predators are put off by dogs. And not all dogs will defend their people if someone threatens or attacks them. Play it safe, especially if you’re a woman. Avoid dark paths and empty parks, and stay in busier, well-illuminated areas.

Leave the tunes at home

When it’s hard to see, you need to rely more on your hearing to know what’s going on around you. Don’t wear headphones when walking your dog at night. You want to pick up on auditory cues in your environment, such as a cyclist whizzing up behind you or an animal rustling in the bushes.

Take your phone

Bring your cellphone on night walks. That way, you can quickly call for help if needed. Chances are, if you take the proper precautions, you won’t ever have to use it. But a cell phone gives you a way to contact others if the need ever arises. This will give you and your family peace of mind.

Stick to known routes

Nighttime isn’t the right time for exploring new trails and streets. Leave that for the daylight hours and stick to routes you’ve walked many times before. When you know an area well, you’re less likely to face unexpected problems or lose your way.